This week I am saying goodbye to some of the most important people in my life. I will be 20 years old soon; in all that time I have not had to say goodbye to anyone of true importance, except for my grandpa, until now. I am saying goodbye to three people who mean so much to me, that simple words cannot ever hope to describe. But I guess I will try anyway, after all, I can be quite stubborn.

I only have one true Aunt (related by blood) however; there is another woman whom I have always called Aunt, ever since I was born, my Aunt Tracy. She was a close friend of both my parents for over 30 years. They grew up together and always stayed close, regardless of how much time has passed. I had the privilege of knowing this incredible woman, a woman who was always honest and always friendly. She always made people feel welcome in her presence. She ended up having two children, boys, both either slightly older or my own age. Frankie is the elder and Anthony younger; both boys were raised properly and grew into good, respectable men.

I have had the privilege to know Frankie and Anthony for most of my life as well. They're like brothers to me; they've always been around. My earliest memory of us hanging out was at a Fourth of July block party, we were the cool kids who were allowed to light fireworks. We would go everywhere together as we grew older; when Anthony and I were in high school together, Frankie in College, we would drive to the mall and just walk around. We would walk around the neighborhood playing games like 'manhunt' and basketball, we had so much fun. I remember all of the Christmas parties Aunt Tracy would host as we grew up, all of her family would come over, every one would enjoy themselves. Even though we weren't technically family, one could not tell the difference, she would always treat me as if I were her third son.

Now Frankie is working on his Master's in college and Anthony is nearing his second year in service for the Navy. I could not possibly be any more proud of them, they really have done well thus far. We are saying goodbye to my family because they are moving to Texas soon and Anthony is going back to the Navy. We celebrated their going away party on October 1st; after all the goodbyes were done, I realize now how much I will miss them. When I hugged them it seemed to last forever, but now I feel like it wasn't long enough. So Aunt Tracy, Frankie, and Anthony; this is not a goodbye. I love you guys and I will see you soon, I promise. Thank you Aunt Tracy, for treating me like your son and thanks Anthony and Frankie, for treating me like a brother.